Chicken Tikka Masala: A Rich and Creamy Indian Classic

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved North Indian dish known for its creamy tomato-based gravy and tender, marinated chicken. It’s a popular choice for its balance of flavors, combining the smoky char of the tikka with the richness of the masala sauce.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
2. Cook the chicken tikka: Preheat a grill or broiler. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill or broil until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the skewers and set aside.
3. Make the masala sauce: Heat butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down.
4. Combine the chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken tikka to the masala sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Finish the dish: Stir in heavy cream and kasuri methi. Simmer for a few more minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the chicken tikka masala hot with naan, rice, or roti.
7. For a richer flavor, you can add a touch of ghee (clarified butter) to the masala sauce.

Would you like to try a variation on this classic recipe?